Sunday nights are never fun. Starting a new week can be stressful as we hurry to complete assignments we didn't make time to do this weekend.
But not to fret! You are not alone! And it is okay, we all need time to relax and reboot before we dive headfirst in to what is sure to be another intimidating and daunting week. Take a deep breath. Reboot, recharge. Send up a prayer. God is with you.
Sunday, November 6, 2011
Wednesday, November 2, 2011
True Friendship
It is not an enemy who taunts me -- I could bear that.
It is not my foes who so arrogantly insult me -- I could hide from them.
Instead, it is you -- my equal, my companion, & close friend.
Psalm 55:12 - 13
A real friend sticks by you in times of trouble and brings peace, healing, love, and acceptance. It is hard to discern between those who are real, and those who are not. Are you my friend if you constantly make me feel insecure and unequal to you?
It isn't easy to find and keep true friends. That is the thing about friendship, you have to work for it, and the rewards are immense. When you do find one, be sure that you are patient, kind, and forgiving. Problems may arise, but they are simply a test. The true friendships survive the fiery trials, the weak ones collapse.
Today's Prayer:
Dear God,
Thank you for being with us today and everyday. We are so thankful to be in the midst of true friends. I pray that you nurture our relationships and help them to grow. Remind us to be careful when we cultivate friendships, to be generous and kind. Help us to be loving toward all, even if we do not get along. As always, we are so blessed by your generosity. We pray that you are with our families and loved ones and keep them safe.
Amen.
It is not my foes who so arrogantly insult me -- I could hide from them.
Instead, it is you -- my equal, my companion, & close friend.
Psalm 55:12 - 13
A real friend sticks by you in times of trouble and brings peace, healing, love, and acceptance. It is hard to discern between those who are real, and those who are not. Are you my friend if you constantly make me feel insecure and unequal to you?
It isn't easy to find and keep true friends. That is the thing about friendship, you have to work for it, and the rewards are immense. When you do find one, be sure that you are patient, kind, and forgiving. Problems may arise, but they are simply a test. The true friendships survive the fiery trials, the weak ones collapse.
Today's Prayer:
Dear God,
Thank you for being with us today and everyday. We are so thankful to be in the midst of true friends. I pray that you nurture our relationships and help them to grow. Remind us to be careful when we cultivate friendships, to be generous and kind. Help us to be loving toward all, even if we do not get along. As always, we are so blessed by your generosity. We pray that you are with our families and loved ones and keep them safe.
Amen.
Wednesday, October 26, 2011
Decisions and Plans
How can we understand the road we travel? It is the Lord who directs our steps.
Proverbs 20:24
We all know the phrase "bad things happen to good people". We do not always understand why events occur, but God knows. He does. He has a plan for us and our lives, and we do not know the plan until God decides to show us.
Sometimes, things don't go as we plan them -- but in all cases it happened for a reason, either to make you stronger or show you that someone, something BETTER is out there. It can be so hard to accept this at times, but our fate is decided by God and our reactions to events and decisions we make.
Today's Prayer:
Dear God,
Thank you for allowing us to come together again this week. Sometimes we are unsure of our footing or which decision to make, please help us as we come to the forks in our paths. Help us to understand you have made a destiny for us, that you know what will happen before the moment comes to pass. We thank you for the gifts you have given us, our friends and family. Be with us as we finish out our weeks.
Amen.
Proverbs 20:24
We all know the phrase "bad things happen to good people". We do not always understand why events occur, but God knows. He does. He has a plan for us and our lives, and we do not know the plan until God decides to show us.
Sometimes, things don't go as we plan them -- but in all cases it happened for a reason, either to make you stronger or show you that someone, something BETTER is out there. It can be so hard to accept this at times, but our fate is decided by God and our reactions to events and decisions we make.
Today's Prayer:
Dear God,
Thank you for allowing us to come together again this week. Sometimes we are unsure of our footing or which decision to make, please help us as we come to the forks in our paths. Help us to understand you have made a destiny for us, that you know what will happen before the moment comes to pass. We thank you for the gifts you have given us, our friends and family. Be with us as we finish out our weeks.
Amen.
Wednesday, October 19, 2011
Worrying
Don't worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will bring its own worries. Today's trouble is enough for today.
Matthew 6:34
I have a bunch of assignments due this week, and I've had a mini-panic attack every time I think about "what's next". All day today I've struggled with the hardest computer programming I've ever encountered and I got distracted thinking about managing my time, telling myself to hurry up and finish so I can write my two papers. In my head, I sat myself down and told myself to stop... to stay focused on this, on what I was doing.
It is so easy to waste away a day thinking of what we have to do tomorrow when today is here and now. Worrying about what is next takes away from the tasks you're currently working on. School and homework are stressful, but focus on today before you worry about tomorrow. And who knows, you may find the time today to do a task you've scheduled for tomorrow.
Today's Prayer:
Dear God,
Please be with us this week as assignments get harder and our free time grows shorter. We thank you for everything you've blessed us with, we know how lucky we are. Help us to stay calm and focused, to be determined and motivated. Be with us, our families and loved ones and help us finish out our weeks.
Amen
Matthew 6:34
I have a bunch of assignments due this week, and I've had a mini-panic attack every time I think about "what's next". All day today I've struggled with the hardest computer programming I've ever encountered and I got distracted thinking about managing my time, telling myself to hurry up and finish so I can write my two papers. In my head, I sat myself down and told myself to stop... to stay focused on this, on what I was doing.
It is so easy to waste away a day thinking of what we have to do tomorrow when today is here and now. Worrying about what is next takes away from the tasks you're currently working on. School and homework are stressful, but focus on today before you worry about tomorrow. And who knows, you may find the time today to do a task you've scheduled for tomorrow.
Today's Prayer:
Dear God,
Please be with us this week as assignments get harder and our free time grows shorter. We thank you for everything you've blessed us with, we know how lucky we are. Help us to stay calm and focused, to be determined and motivated. Be with us, our families and loved ones and help us finish out our weeks.
Amen
Sunday, October 2, 2011
Reaching Goals
It is not enough to take steps which may someday lead to a goal; each step must be itself a goal and a step likewise.
Johann Wolfgang von Goethe
Sometimes I think to myself, does this even matter? I get so frustrated with activities or classes or homework and I just want to quit. But then I remember my goal I've set for myself -- I want to achieve it and I've come this far so I cannot quit. Every day is a new day closer to the goal I've already achieved and I think about my future goals every day. Every thing we do is a step in a direction, and we won't know which direction we are going until we get there. Remember that every action has a reaction. Think through your actions before you implement them.
Today's Prayer
Dear God,
Thank you for bringing us together for another day. Remind us daily that our actions are steps to the future goals we have made for ourselves. Help us to think before we speak and act, help us to plan ahead. Show us which goals are worthy of our time and effort. Above all, continue to watch over us and our loved ones.
Amen
Johann Wolfgang von Goethe
Sometimes I think to myself, does this even matter? I get so frustrated with activities or classes or homework and I just want to quit. But then I remember my goal I've set for myself -- I want to achieve it and I've come this far so I cannot quit. Every day is a new day closer to the goal I've already achieved and I think about my future goals every day. Every thing we do is a step in a direction, and we won't know which direction we are going until we get there. Remember that every action has a reaction. Think through your actions before you implement them.
Today's Prayer
Dear God,
Thank you for bringing us together for another day. Remind us daily that our actions are steps to the future goals we have made for ourselves. Help us to think before we speak and act, help us to plan ahead. Show us which goals are worthy of our time and effort. Above all, continue to watch over us and our loved ones.
Amen
Wednesday, September 28, 2011
Improving!
Your eye is a lamp for your body. A pure eye lets sunshine into your soul. But an evil eye shuts out the light and plunges you into darkness. Make sure that the light you think you have is not really darkness.
Luke 11: 34 - 35
It is easy for us to get caught up in the daily schedule of school, meetings, and homework. It is easy for us to make excuses for our actions. And it is understandable. We were not put on this earth to be perfect, but having faith is not an easy task. Faith is believing in something intangible when common sense says not to. It is simple to take the easy way out, but to become a better person we must all actively and routinely check ourselves to ensure we are not drowning in the darkness but walking humbly in the light.
Let us be careful as to not be ruled by darkness.
Today's Prayer:
Dear God,
Thank you for another beautiful week to gather together and for the people you have put in our lives to continuously improve us. Without your love, we are nothing, without your peace, we live in chaos. Without your light, we are lost in the dark. Help us and guide us this week in our personal improvements and struggles. Keep our families and loved ones close by, help us to finish out our week strong.
Amen
Luke 11: 34 - 35
It is easy for us to get caught up in the daily schedule of school, meetings, and homework. It is easy for us to make excuses for our actions. And it is understandable. We were not put on this earth to be perfect, but having faith is not an easy task. Faith is believing in something intangible when common sense says not to. It is simple to take the easy way out, but to become a better person we must all actively and routinely check ourselves to ensure we are not drowning in the darkness but walking humbly in the light.
Let us be careful as to not be ruled by darkness.
Today's Prayer:
Dear God,
Thank you for another beautiful week to gather together and for the people you have put in our lives to continuously improve us. Without your love, we are nothing, without your peace, we live in chaos. Without your light, we are lost in the dark. Help us and guide us this week in our personal improvements and struggles. Keep our families and loved ones close by, help us to finish out our week strong.
Amen
Wednesday, September 21, 2011
Materialism
Watch out, or you may be seduced with wealth. Do not let yourself be bribed. Could all your wealth keep you from distress?
Job 36:18-19
We are all so attached to our material things. Most of us, if not all of us, have a cell phone in arm's reach in case we get a text, tweet, facebook message, etc. We pay hundreds of dollars for the next best thing so we can stay in contact with our friends and families, connected with the world outside of Auburn. Too often we become disconnected with what is around us and what is truly important. Do I REALLY need to know exactly what you are doing and where you are every second of the day? Probably not. Let's remember it is not how much money we have, who our purse is by, or what our parents do, but who we actually are as people.
Today's Prayer:
Thank you, God, for another day here. Please remind us that materialism should not be in the center of our minds, at the bottom of our thoughts, at the base of our actions. Show us that there is more to life than material objects. Be with our families, our friends, our loved ones and help us to finish out our week.
Amen.
Job 36:18-19
We are all so attached to our material things. Most of us, if not all of us, have a cell phone in arm's reach in case we get a text, tweet, facebook message, etc. We pay hundreds of dollars for the next best thing so we can stay in contact with our friends and families, connected with the world outside of Auburn. Too often we become disconnected with what is around us and what is truly important. Do I REALLY need to know exactly what you are doing and where you are every second of the day? Probably not. Let's remember it is not how much money we have, who our purse is by, or what our parents do, but who we actually are as people.
Today's Prayer:
Thank you, God, for another day here. Please remind us that materialism should not be in the center of our minds, at the bottom of our thoughts, at the base of our actions. Show us that there is more to life than material objects. Be with our families, our friends, our loved ones and help us to finish out our week.
Amen.
Wednesday, September 14, 2011
Are We REALLY Planners?
Only I can tell you what is going to happen even before it happens. Everything I plan will come to pass.
Isaiah 46:10
We live our lives in if statements. "If this happens, I'll be so mad/happy/sad/etc" ... "If I had known that, I would have said _____ instead of _____."
The thing about if statements is that there is no certainty, not 100%. Each day, each minute, there's a possibility of certain events occurring. Where we are now, we cannot peer into next week or five years from now to see what will happen, which is daunting. Only God knows the events he will place before us, and those events shape us, make us stronger & wiser & are ultimately preparing us for the next event or series of events to occur. We cannot change or shape anyone but ourselves, and it's in our best interest to take events in stride and earn from them.
Today's Prayer:
Dear God,
Thank you so much for another day here and another week to come together. Help us remember to walk with our heads high and have confidence, even if you've planned an unhappy event for us. Remind us daily of your love, be with us, our families and loved ones, and let us finish the week strong.
Amen
Isaiah 46:10
We live our lives in if statements. "If this happens, I'll be so mad/happy/sad/etc" ... "If I had known that, I would have said _____ instead of _____."
The thing about if statements is that there is no certainty, not 100%. Each day, each minute, there's a possibility of certain events occurring. Where we are now, we cannot peer into next week or five years from now to see what will happen, which is daunting. Only God knows the events he will place before us, and those events shape us, make us stronger & wiser & are ultimately preparing us for the next event or series of events to occur. We cannot change or shape anyone but ourselves, and it's in our best interest to take events in stride and earn from them.
Today's Prayer:
Dear God,
Thank you so much for another day here and another week to come together. Help us remember to walk with our heads high and have confidence, even if you've planned an unhappy event for us. Remind us daily of your love, be with us, our families and loved ones, and let us finish the week strong.
Amen
Wednesday, September 7, 2011
Self-Control
A person without self control is as defenseless as a city with broken down walls.
Proverbs 25:28
Sometimes we do things we should not because of pressure of wants that we have, but we need to exercise self control in our daily activities. It is hard to follow through on not buying things you shouldn't, or turning to the tv instead of doing homework or studying, but a key to success is to utilize self control when necessary.
Today's Prayer:
Thank you so much for allowing us to see another week here at Auburn and giving us the opportunity to meet again. Please be with us this week as we are confronted with decisions and responsibility. Be with our families, those who were affected by September 11th as we approach the 10 year anniversary, our military and our armed forces. Keep us safe and help us finish out the week strong.
Amen
Proverbs 25:28
Sometimes we do things we should not because of pressure of wants that we have, but we need to exercise self control in our daily activities. It is hard to follow through on not buying things you shouldn't, or turning to the tv instead of doing homework or studying, but a key to success is to utilize self control when necessary.
Today's Prayer:
Thank you so much for allowing us to see another week here at Auburn and giving us the opportunity to meet again. Please be with us this week as we are confronted with decisions and responsibility. Be with our families, those who were affected by September 11th as we approach the 10 year anniversary, our military and our armed forces. Keep us safe and help us finish out the week strong.
Amen
Wednesday, August 31, 2011
Having Faith
You didn't have enough faith, he told them. I assure you, even if you had faith as small as a mustard seed you could say to this mountain, 'move from here to there,' and it would move. Nothing would be impossible.
Matthew 17:20-21
We always say to ourselves: I don't know if I can do it. But, as we're reminded in this passage, nothing is impossible with God and faith.
Today's Prayer
Dear God,
Thank you for bringing us here today safely. Help us to remember that anything is possible with faith. Keep our loved ones safe and help us finish our week out strong.
Amen.
Matthew 17:20-21
We always say to ourselves: I don't know if I can do it. But, as we're reminded in this passage, nothing is impossible with God and faith.
Today's Prayer
Dear God,
Thank you for bringing us here today safely. Help us to remember that anything is possible with faith. Keep our loved ones safe and help us finish our week out strong.
Amen.
Wednesday, August 24, 2011
Un-Selfish
Do not be selfish, don't live to make a good impression on others. Be humble, thinking of others as better than yourself. Don't think only about your own affairs, but be interested in others, too, and what they are doing.
Philippians 2:3-4
It is so easy these days to be selfish, to think only about ourselves. Yet having successful friendships is about compromise. When you put the other person first, it shows that you care about them and you value their opinion.
Social media capitalizes on our selfishness and our pride, and I will not say that I am not a victim. It is hard to live in a society that is as judgmental as ours is, that looks at you for what you have and not who you are.
Our lives are characterized by a multitude of moments, and I would rather spend it with people who accept me for who I am and those who I care about than those who do not know the real me. First impressions are so important today, but a life full of first impression moments seems tiring to me.
Today's Prayer:
Dear God,
Thank you for seeing us to another week, we are so thankful to be here today with people who value our friendships. Help us to be humble and to help others and ask about what is going on in their lives. Remind us that in order to make relationships work we have to listen as well as share. God, I ask that you keep our families and loved ones safe, and help us to end this week on a positive note.
Amen.
Philippians 2:3-4
It is so easy these days to be selfish, to think only about ourselves. Yet having successful friendships is about compromise. When you put the other person first, it shows that you care about them and you value their opinion.
Social media capitalizes on our selfishness and our pride, and I will not say that I am not a victim. It is hard to live in a society that is as judgmental as ours is, that looks at you for what you have and not who you are.
Our lives are characterized by a multitude of moments, and I would rather spend it with people who accept me for who I am and those who I care about than those who do not know the real me. First impressions are so important today, but a life full of first impression moments seems tiring to me.
Today's Prayer:
Dear God,
Thank you for seeing us to another week, we are so thankful to be here today with people who value our friendships. Help us to be humble and to help others and ask about what is going on in their lives. Remind us that in order to make relationships work we have to listen as well as share. God, I ask that you keep our families and loved ones safe, and help us to end this week on a positive note.
Amen.
Wednesday, August 17, 2011
Decisions, Decisions!
There is a time for everything, a season for every activity under heaven.
Ecclesiastes 3:1
The new school year inspires me, and frustrates others. As classes starts and we realize summer is coming to an end, we are faced with the same decision repeatedly: should we be social or studious? This verse reminds us that there is a time for everything. Don't be afraid to study on a Wednesday night instead of going out. First and foremost, we are students, we are here to get an education.
At the same time, there are definitely days where we need our friends, we need to relax and forget about the stress brought on by classes and assignments. The days where everything seems to be going wrong, there is NOTHING I love more than coming home to the hall, sitting on a couch, and hashing my day out with my sisters. Or grabbing a girlfriend and hitting the elliptical for 30 minutes.
Time management is so difficult, but extremely necessary, both in college and in the "real world", the working world.
Dreaming all the time instead of working is foolishness.
Ecclesiastes 5:7
Today's Prayer:
Dear God,
Thank you for allowing us to start a new semester at school, help us remember how lucky we are to have this opportunity. Be with us as we make decisions and attempt to manage our time. Guide us on our paths and assist us in our decision making. Above all, continue to watch over us and our loved ones daily.
Amen.
(Chapter Devotion)
Ecclesiastes 3:1
The new school year inspires me, and frustrates others. As classes starts and we realize summer is coming to an end, we are faced with the same decision repeatedly: should we be social or studious? This verse reminds us that there is a time for everything. Don't be afraid to study on a Wednesday night instead of going out. First and foremost, we are students, we are here to get an education.
At the same time, there are definitely days where we need our friends, we need to relax and forget about the stress brought on by classes and assignments. The days where everything seems to be going wrong, there is NOTHING I love more than coming home to the hall, sitting on a couch, and hashing my day out with my sisters. Or grabbing a girlfriend and hitting the elliptical for 30 minutes.
Time management is so difficult, but extremely necessary, both in college and in the "real world", the working world.
Dreaming all the time instead of working is foolishness.
Ecclesiastes 5:7
Today's Prayer:
Dear God,
Thank you for allowing us to start a new semester at school, help us remember how lucky we are to have this opportunity. Be with us as we make decisions and attempt to manage our time. Guide us on our paths and assist us in our decision making. Above all, continue to watch over us and our loved ones daily.
Amen.
(Chapter Devotion)
Sunday, August 7, 2011
They Will Know We Are Sisters By Our Love
"Dear children, let us stop just saying we love each other; let us really show it by our actions."
1 John 3:18
Recruitment is extremely stressful. We are making decisions that shape futures, and although it is hard, we need to remember above all, that we are a support group for each other. It is easy to say, "I love Kappa with all my heart" or "I love my sisters" but we really show that love through the vocal & silent support, as well as respect that we give each other. We may not always agree with one another, but as in Proverbs 18:24, "a real friend sticks closer than a brother."
Dear God,
Please give us strength this week as we meet all these wonderful girls from different places. Please give us patience with one another when stress is high, give us energy when the day drags on, and give us clarity as we add to our Kappa family. Please help us to make these girls feel welcome to Auburn and especially Kappa, and when it is time to rest, let sleep come swiftly.
Amen
1 John 3:18
Recruitment is extremely stressful. We are making decisions that shape futures, and although it is hard, we need to remember above all, that we are a support group for each other. It is easy to say, "I love Kappa with all my heart" or "I love my sisters" but we really show that love through the vocal & silent support, as well as respect that we give each other. We may not always agree with one another, but as in Proverbs 18:24, "a real friend sticks closer than a brother."
Dear God,
Please give us strength this week as we meet all these wonderful girls from different places. Please give us patience with one another when stress is high, give us energy when the day drags on, and give us clarity as we add to our Kappa family. Please help us to make these girls feel welcome to Auburn and especially Kappa, and when it is time to rest, let sleep come swiftly.
Amen
Wednesday, June 29, 2011
Here I Am, Lord
Here I am Lord, Is it I Lord?
I have heard You calling in the night.
I will go Lord, if You lead me.
I will hold Your people in my heart.
I have heard You calling in the night.
I will go Lord, if You lead me.
I will hold Your people in my heart.
Here I Am, Lord (Hymn)
One of my favorite hymns is Here I Am, Lord. It is lilting, uplifting, and comforting. It talks about God protecting his people and his love for mankind.
This hymn has its beginnings from Abraham, The Book of Genesis to be precise. Abraham is first met in Genesis 12, when God convinces Abraham to leave his native land with the promise of making him into a great nation.
Abraham is tested by God, but each time God calls him, he replies "Here I am Lord, willing and able." How wonderful that sounds, to be able to speak that phrase and mean it with all of your heart. I often think to myself, what would happen if I gave everything, literally everything, to God?
Technically, I already have. I believe in God, I believe in God's will, yet I have not reached the point of 100% trust in the Lord. I took a plunge and applied to an internship that will take me across the Atlantic, to a country where the native language is not English. Yet, I still am nervous. I still am concerned about the ability to survive in France for seven months. I know I am blessed, yet I can't seem to get the doubt out of my head.
"No, O people, the Lord has told you what is good,
and this is what he requires of you:
to do what is right, to love mercy,
and to walk humbly with your God."
and this is what he requires of you:
to do what is right, to love mercy,
and to walk humbly with your God."
Micah 6:8
As much as I want to continue to doubt, I know I have to continue my struggle to trust completely in Him.
"Daily, our faithfulness will be tested." Reverend Ede Plavonich
"God does not intend to leave us where we are. By no means is he finished with us." Reverend Ede Plavonich
Thursday, June 23, 2011
Busy Schedules
O God, in the course of this busy life, give us times of
refreshment and peace; and grant that we may so use our
leisure to rebuild our bodies and renew our minds, that our
spirits may be opened to the goodness of your creation;
through Jesus Christ our Lord.
Amen.refreshment and peace; and grant that we may so use our
leisure to rebuild our bodies and renew our minds, that our
spirits may be opened to the goodness of your creation;
through Jesus Christ our Lord.
(A Prayer for the Good Use of Leisure)
Wednesday, June 22, 2011
Doubts
"I cried out, I am slipping! but your unfailing love supported me, O Lord. When doubts filled my mind, your comfort gave me renewed hope and cheer."
Psalm 94:18-19
Recently, my cousin Drew lost three of his friends in a car accident on their way back from youth group on a Sunday night. They were 16. I must ask you all for something today, your prayers. He needs them, and so do the families of the boys.
My cousin and his friends are strong in their faith. They go to church, they have loving and supportive families and are all around wonderful guys. But something happened, and God needed them to be with him. As hard as it is for me to understand, I accept that. I accept the fact that God has a plan for all of us and that his plan is true and holy and good. His plan has a reason. I never have been able to understand death, human death really. For in God we do not die, and we are survived by our friends, our families, and the memories that we have left behind. We touch people's lives in ways we cannot imagine, and we will never die for them.
I know this to be true because I still hear stories about my great-great-great Uncle Sambo. In family, your legend lives on in facial features and similarities.
Death is frightening, it is sad, it causes us to doubt our faith and to doubt God. Instead, we should be putting our trust into him, relying on him and others while we are lying at the bottom wondering why it had to be them, why them and why now.
God will comfort us, through memories, friends, songs, movies, television, magazines, books. God will steer us towards happiness.
That is my belief.
I pray that you all are having a blessed day.
Psalm 94:18-19
Recently, my cousin Drew lost three of his friends in a car accident on their way back from youth group on a Sunday night. They were 16. I must ask you all for something today, your prayers. He needs them, and so do the families of the boys.
My cousin and his friends are strong in their faith. They go to church, they have loving and supportive families and are all around wonderful guys. But something happened, and God needed them to be with him. As hard as it is for me to understand, I accept that. I accept the fact that God has a plan for all of us and that his plan is true and holy and good. His plan has a reason. I never have been able to understand death, human death really. For in God we do not die, and we are survived by our friends, our families, and the memories that we have left behind. We touch people's lives in ways we cannot imagine, and we will never die for them.
I know this to be true because I still hear stories about my great-great-great Uncle Sambo. In family, your legend lives on in facial features and similarities.
Death is frightening, it is sad, it causes us to doubt our faith and to doubt God. Instead, we should be putting our trust into him, relying on him and others while we are lying at the bottom wondering why it had to be them, why them and why now.
God will comfort us, through memories, friends, songs, movies, television, magazines, books. God will steer us towards happiness.
That is my belief.
I pray that you all are having a blessed day.
Wednesday, April 27, 2011
Fear of The Future
"Do not be afraid, for I am with you. Do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, I will help you. I will uphold you with my victorious right hand."
Isaiah 41:10
As this semester ends, a new chapter begins. For some of us, it's a new job, a new city, graduation, even all three. For others, it is a new semester, a summer far from friends, a new schedule, and adjustments.
But do not fear the future, be confident that God is in your corner, rooting for you. Your proverbial corner is so strong, and with your sisters only a phone call, text, email, or facebook chat away, you have so much strength to draw from.
Today's Prayer:
Dear God,
As this stressful week comes to an end, let us be reminded that the future is certain. Not to us, but to you. Help us to take confidence in this thought & remember that you are with us! Thank you for allowing us to gather again today, keep us safe & give us motivation, determination, and focus as finals come closer.
Amen
(Chapter Devotion)
Isaiah 41:10
As this semester ends, a new chapter begins. For some of us, it's a new job, a new city, graduation, even all three. For others, it is a new semester, a summer far from friends, a new schedule, and adjustments.
But do not fear the future, be confident that God is in your corner, rooting for you. Your proverbial corner is so strong, and with your sisters only a phone call, text, email, or facebook chat away, you have so much strength to draw from.
Today's Prayer:
Dear God,
As this stressful week comes to an end, let us be reminded that the future is certain. Not to us, but to you. Help us to take confidence in this thought & remember that you are with us! Thank you for allowing us to gather again today, keep us safe & give us motivation, determination, and focus as finals come closer.
Amen
(Chapter Devotion)
Wednesday, April 20, 2011
Troubled Times
"I am the one who creates the light & the darkness. I am the one who sends the good times and the bad times. I, the Lord, am the one who does these things."
Isaiah 45:7
We don't always have good days. No one does, the Lord sends us good and bad days. Although the bad days tend to be especially heinous these days, it is important to know that it is here to strengthen you. About 80% of the time, maybe more (of course more), I forget that. I complain, I stress, I breakdown, I cry... I mainly stress, let's be honest. However, "you cannot appreciate the rainbow without first experiencing the rain". As cliche-d as it is, like yin and yang, the light and darkness go hand in hand. To experience the wondrous aspects of the light, we must travel through darkness.
Do NOT be discouraged! Trust in God to help you through today and the next.
Today's Prayer:
Dear God,
Thank you for another week, whether it has been good or bad, we are thankful to be here. Be with us, we pray, as these school days come to an end. Gift us with focus, determination, productivity, and strength. Watch over our loved ones and continue to keep us safe.
Amen.
"If you are walking in darkness, without a ray of light, trust in the Lord and rely on your God."
Isaiah 50:10
(Chapter Devotion)
Isaiah 45:7
We don't always have good days. No one does, the Lord sends us good and bad days. Although the bad days tend to be especially heinous these days, it is important to know that it is here to strengthen you. About 80% of the time, maybe more (of course more), I forget that. I complain, I stress, I breakdown, I cry... I mainly stress, let's be honest. However, "you cannot appreciate the rainbow without first experiencing the rain". As cliche-d as it is, like yin and yang, the light and darkness go hand in hand. To experience the wondrous aspects of the light, we must travel through darkness.
Do NOT be discouraged! Trust in God to help you through today and the next.
Today's Prayer:
Dear God,
Thank you for another week, whether it has been good or bad, we are thankful to be here. Be with us, we pray, as these school days come to an end. Gift us with focus, determination, productivity, and strength. Watch over our loved ones and continue to keep us safe.
Amen.
"If you are walking in darkness, without a ray of light, trust in the Lord and rely on your God."
Isaiah 50:10
(Chapter Devotion)
Wednesday, April 13, 2011
Working Together
"Under his direction, the whole body is fitted together perfectly. As each part does its own special work, it helps the other parts grow, so that the whole body is healthy and growing and full of love."
Ephesians 4:16
Often, we believe we can do it all on our own, that we are capable of doing everything. We are wrong. This verse points out that we each have specific, unique talents, and we need to lean on one another in order to help the entire body to grow.
Our sorority is similar to a body, or a church; we grow and are healthy when each of us recognizes their own talent and how they can use it to help improve Kappa. In order to grow as a sorority, we need to recognize our own personal talents and attempt to help each other as we undertake tasks. With mutual respect and assistance, love is more likely to grow exponentially between us.
"This makes for harmony among the members, so that all the members care for each other equally. If one part suffers, all the parts suffer with it, and if one part is honored, all the parts are glad."
1 Corinthians 12: 25 - 26
(Chapter Devotion)
Ephesians 4:16
Often, we believe we can do it all on our own, that we are capable of doing everything. We are wrong. This verse points out that we each have specific, unique talents, and we need to lean on one another in order to help the entire body to grow.
Our sorority is similar to a body, or a church; we grow and are healthy when each of us recognizes their own talent and how they can use it to help improve Kappa. In order to grow as a sorority, we need to recognize our own personal talents and attempt to help each other as we undertake tasks. With mutual respect and assistance, love is more likely to grow exponentially between us.
"This makes for harmony among the members, so that all the members care for each other equally. If one part suffers, all the parts suffer with it, and if one part is honored, all the parts are glad."
1 Corinthians 12: 25 - 26
(Chapter Devotion)
Wednesday, April 6, 2011
Pride
"Pride leads to disgrace, but with humility comes wisdom."
Proverbs 11:2
This is a hard one to wrap your mind around. Society tells us we should be proud of what we do, we should "flaunt it" or "shake what your momma gave ya". However, we need to remember that while society says one thing, God has our best interest at heart and says another.
Too much pride can lead to your downfall, and it is also a sin. It's easy to be proud of something we have accomplished, we put hard work into completing activities and reaching goals we have set -- "but with humility comes wisdom." The humble gain wisdom from being so after they have climbed their personal mountain.
(Chapter Devotion)
Proverbs 11:2
This is a hard one to wrap your mind around. Society tells us we should be proud of what we do, we should "flaunt it" or "shake what your momma gave ya". However, we need to remember that while society says one thing, God has our best interest at heart and says another.
Too much pride can lead to your downfall, and it is also a sin. It's easy to be proud of something we have accomplished, we put hard work into completing activities and reaching goals we have set -- "but with humility comes wisdom." The humble gain wisdom from being so after they have climbed their personal mountain.
(Chapter Devotion)
Wednesday, March 30, 2011
The Love of God
"For I am convinced that nothing can separate us from the love of God. Neither life, nor death. Nor the angels, and the demons. Our fears for today, our worries about tomorrow, and even the powers of hell cannot separate us from the love of God found in Jesus Christ."
Romans 8: 38 - 39
To me, this is the most powerful verse in the Bible. It's strange, but it at times can bring me to tears on an especially bad day. This verse gives me confidence like Paul intended to give the Romans. Take courage in this verse -- NOTHING separates you from God's love, no matter what you do! God's love for you will not diminish with time, with mistakes, with worries or fears. Have faith in this fact.
(Chapter Devotion)
Romans 8: 38 - 39
To me, this is the most powerful verse in the Bible. It's strange, but it at times can bring me to tears on an especially bad day. This verse gives me confidence like Paul intended to give the Romans. Take courage in this verse -- NOTHING separates you from God's love, no matter what you do! God's love for you will not diminish with time, with mistakes, with worries or fears. Have faith in this fact.
(Chapter Devotion)
Wednesday, March 23, 2011
Serve One Another
"For you have been called to live in freedom -- not freedom to satisfy your desires, but freedom to serve one another in love."
Galatians 5:13
Remember to think of others during your day to day actions, realize how you might affect them. You never know the impact a simple act of kindness such as a smile will have on a person. And, eventually, that small act of kindness will manifest itself in your life from another.
(Chapter Devotion)
Galatians 5:13
Remember to think of others during your day to day actions, realize how you might affect them. You never know the impact a simple act of kindness such as a smile will have on a person. And, eventually, that small act of kindness will manifest itself in your life from another.
(Chapter Devotion)
Wednesday, March 9, 2011
Ash Wednesday
"For He himself knows whereof we are made; he remembers that we are but dust."
Psalm 103: 14
"Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a right spirit within me."
Psalm 51:11
Ash Wednesday is the start of Lent, which "is a time of spiritual journeying through intentional prayer, self-discipline, and reflection. At its most basic, Lent is a holy time to strip away the distractions and excuses that stand between us and our full connection to God " (http://www.holycomforter-clt.org). The Lenten season symbolizes the 40 days in which Jesus was fasting in the desert being tempted by the devil.
As we go about this Lenten season, let us try and decipher for ourselves what is standing between us and God.
A reading from the Book Of Common Prayer:
"Thereby, the whole congregation was put in the mind of the message of pardon and absolution set forth in the Gospel of our Savior, and of the need which all Christians continually have to renew their repentance and faith."
(Chapter Devotion)
*A special thanks to Holy Comforter Episcopal Church in Charlotte, NC for having such an awesome website to grab information from!
Psalm 103: 14
"Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a right spirit within me."
Psalm 51:11
Ash Wednesday is the start of Lent, which "is a time of spiritual journeying through intentional prayer, self-discipline, and reflection. At its most basic, Lent is a holy time to strip away the distractions and excuses that stand between us and our full connection to God " (http://www.holycomforter-clt.org). The Lenten season symbolizes the 40 days in which Jesus was fasting in the desert being tempted by the devil.
As we go about this Lenten season, let us try and decipher for ourselves what is standing between us and God.
A reading from the Book Of Common Prayer:
"Thereby, the whole congregation was put in the mind of the message of pardon and absolution set forth in the Gospel of our Savior, and of the need which all Christians continually have to renew their repentance and faith."
A prayer of self-dedication:
"Almighty and eternal God, so draw our hearts to thee, so guide our minds, so fill our imaginations, so control our wills, that we may be utterly thine, utterly dedicated to thee; and then use us, we pray thee, as thou will, and always to thy glory and the welfare of thy people; through our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Amen."
(Chapter Devotion)
*A special thanks to Holy Comforter Episcopal Church in Charlotte, NC for having such an awesome website to grab information from!
Wednesday, March 2, 2011
Perfection
"Not one of us is always perfect and never sins; we all fall short of God's glorious standard."
Romans 3:23
Nobody is perfect (cue the Miley Cyrus song!). It is IMPOSSIBLE to be perfect, we will never live up to that word. But that is okay! Instead, try to be perfect in your love -- love with reckless abandonment, for as it says in 1 Peter 4:8, "Love covers a multitude of sins". So, remember, perfection in a human definition is in no way attainable, and that is the reason that God loves you! You happen to be absolutely perfect in HIS eyes.
(Chapter Devotion)
"Most important of all, continue to show deep love for each other, for love covers a multitude of sins"
1 Peter 4:8
Romans 3:23
Nobody is perfect (cue the Miley Cyrus song!). It is IMPOSSIBLE to be perfect, we will never live up to that word. But that is okay! Instead, try to be perfect in your love -- love with reckless abandonment, for as it says in 1 Peter 4:8, "Love covers a multitude of sins". So, remember, perfection in a human definition is in no way attainable, and that is the reason that God loves you! You happen to be absolutely perfect in HIS eyes.
(Chapter Devotion)
"Most important of all, continue to show deep love for each other, for love covers a multitude of sins"
1 Peter 4:8
Wednesday, February 23, 2011
Problems and Strength
"We can rejoice, too, when re run into problems and trials, for we know that they are good for us -- they help us learn to endure. And endurance develops strength of character in us, and character strengthens our confident expectation of salvation. And this expectation will not disappoint us!"
Romans 5: 3 - 5
It's hard to see the upside of any problem, for they're usually hard to overcome. But this passage from Romans reminds us that your character will be strengthened when you run into obstacles! The more our character is strengthened, the more we are transformed into a better version of ourselves, which is God's ultimate goal.
May the peace of the LORD, which passes all understanding, be always with you!
(2/23/2011)
Romans 5: 3 - 5
It's hard to see the upside of any problem, for they're usually hard to overcome. But this passage from Romans reminds us that your character will be strengthened when you run into obstacles! The more our character is strengthened, the more we are transformed into a better version of ourselves, which is God's ultimate goal.
May the peace of the LORD, which passes all understanding, be always with you!
(2/23/2011)
Wednesday, February 16, 2011
Lost But Not Forgotten
"Can a mother ever truly forget her child? Never. But even if it were possible, I would not forget you! See, I have written my name on your hand."
Isaiah 49:15-16
Sometimes we may feel lost and confused and forgotten. But do not worry, lest you live in fear! God has not forgotten you and He never will!
"When you go through deep waters and great trouble, I will be with you. When you go through rivers of difficulty, you will not drown."
Isaiah 43:2
(Chapter Devotion)
Isaiah 49:15-16
Sometimes we may feel lost and confused and forgotten. But do not worry, lest you live in fear! God has not forgotten you and He never will!
"When you go through deep waters and great trouble, I will be with you. When you go through rivers of difficulty, you will not drown."
Isaiah 43:2
(Chapter Devotion)
Wednesday, February 9, 2011
Patience and Endurance
"Finishing is better than starting. Patience is better than pride."
Ecclesiates 7:8
It's easy to say we are going to do something, to lists miles long and be proud of what we say we're going to accomplish. But, it is altogether another thing to put a check mark next to each "to-do". Personally, I feel extremely productive by each check I place on my list. We may say we are going to clean the kitchen, do the dishes, do our laundry, volunteer, and start that project TODAY! But once we start, the majority of the time we do not finish. We get antsy, we do other things that weren't on that infamous list. I challenge you to be patient with the time it takes to complete a task, and do that thing you have been putting off. I will too!
(Chapter Devotion)
Ecclesiates 7:8
It's easy to say we are going to do something, to lists miles long and be proud of what we say we're going to accomplish. But, it is altogether another thing to put a check mark next to each "to-do". Personally, I feel extremely productive by each check I place on my list. We may say we are going to clean the kitchen, do the dishes, do our laundry, volunteer, and start that project TODAY! But once we start, the majority of the time we do not finish. We get antsy, we do other things that weren't on that infamous list. I challenge you to be patient with the time it takes to complete a task, and do that thing you have been putting off. I will too!
(Chapter Devotion)
Wednesday, January 26, 2011
Mistakes
"Be humble and gentle. Be patient with each other, making allowances for each others faults because of your love. Always keep yourself united in the Holy Spirit, and bind yourselves together with peace."
Ephesians 4:2-3
We all make mistakes, and we all have a tendency to step on each others toes or get annoyed with someone. Let's remember that we are only human, and we should forgive those who might have hurt us. We want the same thing when we make a mistake. Our love for each other binds us together, and makes our sorority stronger as a whole.
(Chapter Devotion)
Monday, January 24, 2011
Overcoming Sin
Questions to Ponder:
1 Samuel 2:3
"But, in my distress I cried out to the Lord; yes, I called to my God for help. He heard me from his sanctuary; my cry reached his ears."
2 Samuel 22:7
"I have not departed from his commands, but have treasured his word in my heart."
Job 23:12
"There is not a single person in all the earth who is always good and never sins."
Ecclesiastes 7:20
"The law itself is holy, and its commands are holy and right and good."
Romans 7:12
(Bible Study)
- What do you think about when you hear the word sin?
- What do you once you realize you have sinned?
- How is it possible to not make the same mistake?
1 Samuel 2:3
"But, in my distress I cried out to the Lord; yes, I called to my God for help. He heard me from his sanctuary; my cry reached his ears."
2 Samuel 22:7
"I have not departed from his commands, but have treasured his word in my heart."
Job 23:12
"There is not a single person in all the earth who is always good and never sins."
Ecclesiastes 7:20
"The law itself is holy, and its commands are holy and right and good."
Romans 7:12
(Bible Study)
Wednesday, January 19, 2011
Gossip
"Fire goes out for lack of fuel, and quarrels disappear when gossip stops."
Proverbs 26:20
Let's try and remember that we are here to be supportive and to lift each other up, not to bring each other down. While it might be difficult to not gossip, we joined Kappa for friendship and the ability to be understood by the girls we are with today!
(Chapter Devotion)
Proverbs 26:20
Let's try and remember that we are here to be supportive and to lift each other up, not to bring each other down. While it might be difficult to not gossip, we joined Kappa for friendship and the ability to be understood by the girls we are with today!
(Chapter Devotion)
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